An artificial dawn simulator works by simulating sunrise. Our internal body clocks are set by how light or dark our environment is. In the wintertime we are trying to wake while it is still dark and our bodies are still producing the sleep hormone melatonin. This hormone is produced in the absence of light. By initiating sunrise with an artificial dawn simulator 30-60 minutes prior to waking you are helping to stop the production of melatonin in your body allowing your body to wake up in a more natural restful way. There are also dawn simulators that imitate the natural cycle of light. They are primarily artificial dawn simulators that can be programmed for dusk simulation as well. These simulators prepare your body to wake and sleep naturally with light cues.
SAD artificial dawn simulators help to regulate and align the production of the hormones serotonin and melatonin. Low serotonin levels are believed to be the causes of many cases of mild to severe depression, anxiety, apathy, fatigue, and insomnia. Melatonin is the chief regulator of our circadian rhythms or sleep cycles. Increase in production of this hormone attributes to fatigue, sleepiness, and excessive eating and weight gain. The decrease in production of one hormone is linked to the increased production in the other hormone resulting in the seasonal disorders.
SAD light therapy works for everyone whether or not you have seasonal affective disorder or not. We all feel better when it is nice and bright around us. SAD light therapy boxes can help you create a lively atmosphere to keep the winter blues away. A dawn simulator is an investment you won't regret.
